MMC consultants works with you through a step-by-step review process to evaluate your program. We will facilitate a team process to identify strengths, growing edges, opportunities, threats, and help sort through the many issues most programs face. Together we will identify the realistic goals and options for you, and as needed, we can provide various levels of implementation assistance, again based on need.

2. What is the Minnesota Model of care?

The Minnesota Model started out as a grass roots model that evolved over time to meet the multiple needs of individuals, families and other concerned persons. Much has been written about it. I believe the strength of the Minnesota Model of care, whether outpatient, residential, inpatient, extended or transitional care, is that it is a holistic model that flexes to the needs of the individual and to some extent the realities of the caregiver. There is no ONE WAY. This model integrates the profound wisdom of Alcoholic's Anonymous, one of the most effective grass roots movements of the last century, with the continuous educational and technical advances of a multidisciplinary team of professionals. It transcends single dimensional care models with its focus on mind, body and spirit. It is not a stagnant model and to this day continues to evolve to meet the needs of the addicted person.
Over the years the term Minnesota Model has often been incorrectly labeled based on misunderstandings and false interpretations. I am currently developing an information handout that I hope will assist in efforts to communicate more completely the nature of the Minnesota Model. Please check back in the coming weeks as we will make that information available on this site.

3. Do you work with both non-profit and for-profit programs?

We work with any group that is philosophically compatible with us and that is genuinely interested in carrying the message to the still suffering addict. Profit and non-profit are tax classifications. It has been our experience that the tax status of an organization does not define the organizational "heart" or "mission-mindedness."

4. What does the phrase managing the total enterprise describe?

All treatment providers must effectively manage more than just patient care. To be successful and sustain a quality program involves multiple management components including strategic direction, leadership issues, non-profit board relations, human resource management, budgeting and business planning, site operations and many more. While the for-profit business community has historically looked at the full scope of operating a business, many non-profits are run by clinically trained professionals who often have more difficulty managing the business components and total operations beyond just clinical care. We bring to your organization our experience in balancing that blend of clinical and business needs in a real-world environment.

5. We would like to grow and expand, but aren't sure if it is even possible. Can you help?

Most service providers would like to grow their services to help more people, but the reality of business today requires more than just good intentions. It also requires good business analysis and careful planning. We have the depth as an agency to work with any group wishing to explore the options for growth and expansion. Working collaboratively we will assess and research options and facilitate analysis and planning so that growth can be managed realistically.

6. Why would a program need the help of Minnesota Model Consulting?

Obviously there isn't a single answer for this question, and it will really depend on the project. It is our experience in operations that often agencies/treatment programs have all they can do to just keep "our heads above water." More than once we have heard the analogy that "this project is like trying to change the tire on a moving truck." We bring added resources to look beyond the day-to-day operations. In the beginning of any project is a process in which an agency considers whether they need our help, and we consider whether we can offer assistance. We are committed to listening and exploring the needs of anyone who contacts us. From that we can determine how we might be of assistance.

7. Is Minnesota Model Consulting affiliated with Hazelden?

No. While many of us were at one time employed by or in some way connected to Hazelden, our firm is not affiliated with Hazelden. We heartily support the work of Hazelden and the resource it provides people.

8. Will you work with organizations that are not primarily substance abuse but would like to incorporate substance abuse into their services?

Our experience allows us to work with a wide variety of agencies and services. We are adept at planning and customizing solutions in a number of environments. Above all we want to make sure that the scope of any project meets the needs of those we would help.

9. Do you work with agencies that provide care for adolescents?

Yes, we have extensive experience with managing adolescent services.

10. Do you work with other types of non-profits on such things as business models or strategic planning?

Our focus is on substance abuse services, so while we might like to assist other non-profits, we are unable to do so at this time. We do invite you to contact us however as we may be able to offer referral resources to assist you.